MANILA, Philippines — Search and rescue operations continue for the 171 individuals still missing due to the onslaught of Tropical Storm Vinta in the Philippines.

Based on the report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), 164 were confirmed dead, most of them due to flashfloods or landslides.

The NDRRMC is still determining why there are many casualties despite forced evacuations implemented in the affected areas.

“There are many policemen and soldiers who assisted us during the evacuation. I could not descriptively say what transpire in the evacuation but they were asked to evacuate,” NDRRMC Spokesperson Mina Marasigan said.

More than 115,000  families have been affected by the storm, 21,000 families remain in evacuation centers while more than 16,500 families are now staying with their relatives.

These are recorded in regions of MIMAROPA, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, ARMM and Caraga.

The most affected by the storm are Zamboanga del Norte, Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur.

In the cellphone video of Gnil Andingan Nassah posted on her Facebook page, flashfloods could be seen in Salvador Lanao del Norte while residents were trying to cross using a rope.

Prior to Tropical Storm Vinta, Tropical Depression Urduja also left 50 people dead and 21 others missing in Central Philippines.

The United Nations has extended its sympathy to the losses caused by the storms along with its expression to help in the disaster.

Based on the statement of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, the United Nations will support local and national authorities in helping those who are affected by the calamities in addition to the support provided by its humanitarian partners.

Malacañang has already assured the government’s help to the victims

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the national government will continue to provide assistance to affected communities. – Rosalie Coz | UNTV News & Rescue